Bassoon

Contents:

Important info:

Played by: Wind & Double Reed
Key: Concert Pitch
Clef: Bass & Tenor
Range:

The bassoon is the bass of the woodwind section, like the oboe with its double reed mouth piece it has less nasally tone. The bassoons tone blends in very effectively with other instruments of the orchestra, so much so that it is often mistaken for not being heard, but if taken out it becomes noticeable. It often doubles the cellos in the orchestra, giving the cello’s sound more depth.

The bassoon is a very agile instrument and is able to quick passages with ease, as well as being able to perform upward leaps quite easily. Take care when selecting dynamics for the bassoon, in the highest it is difficult to play loud and in its lowest it is more difficult to play quietly.

Trills can be effective on the bassoon, anywhere from just above the stave downwards, but tremolos don’t play very well, stay away from them if possible, but if they are required stay within a perfect forth. Back to top